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Tapping Into the Cambridge/Somerville Consignment Scene

BY: Natalie Chassaigne Kurtzman |May 5, 2014

I personally enjoy the act of shopping almost as much as the satisfaction of finding a new item to purchase. If you’re like me - and enjoy the thrill of the hunt - then you’ll want to explore some of my favorite antique and thrift stores in the Boston area.

It’s easy to find over-priced, over-picked shops, so I am constantly on the search for new places that offer great pieces at reasonable prices. Easier said than done!

The Cambridge/Somerville area is well-known for its density of shops offering gently-loved items. A favorite of mine is the Cambridge Antique Mart; be sure to have a few hours to roam the four floors of goods. You’ll find jewelry, clothing, furniture, and all sorts of odds and ends. The great thing about a larger shop such as the Cambridge Antique Mart is that there are hundreds of sellers, all with various styles and quality. In the past, I’ve bought a super inexpensive plastic necklace and a few nicer, more expensive pieces of clothing.

Just down the road in Inman Square, there is Poor Little Rich Girl, one of Boston’s best consignment shops. The selection can be hit or miss, but on a good day, there are a lot of gems. I love the back room, which features vintage items from beaded boleros to heels and pill box hats.

If you continue on into Cambridge, you’ll come across the beloved Oona’s in Harvard Square. Although Oona’s is a tiny space, the items are well sourced and are really beautiful. The price point is definitely higher, but you’ll find some great brand name gems. Plus, the store is really pleasant and well lit. They have a little room devoted to accessories and jewelry, plus a men’s section that has some great blazers and ties.

My recommendation for uncovering great thrift finds: just explore. There’s an abundance of great places in Boston, and I often stumble across new finds just by strolling in new-to-me neighborhoods.

Natalie highlights events, boutiques, and people that make Boston such a great place to live on The Boston Day Book. Born and raised in Boston, Natalie adores every corner of this city, from the cobblestoned streets of Beacon Hill to practicing her chopstick skills in Chinatown. She can often be found snapping photos around the city or taking sunrise walks with her husband and Portuguese Water Dog, Weber.